Thursday June 05 Ag News

Nebraska Pork Expo Set for July 9 in York, Nebraska Pork Producers Annual Meeting Scheduled the Day Before

The Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (AFAN) invites pork producers, ag professionals, and industry supporters to attend the 2025 Nebraska Pork Expo on Wednesday, July 9, at the Holthus Convention Center in York, Nebraska.

This free, full-day event requires pre-registration and will provide a full schedule of education, networking, and innovation centered on Nebraska’s pork industry.

The expo runs from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and includes complimentary breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Pre-registration is required by June 25 at www.becomeafan.org.

In addition, the Nebraska Pork Producers Association will host its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, July 8, starting at 2:30 p.m., also at the Holthus Convention Center. The meeting will be followed by a complimentary social hour and banquet. All pork industry members are encouraged to attend both events.

Governor Jim Pillen will open the Pork Expo with remarks on the current state and future direction of pork production in Nebraska. Attendees will also hear from Seth Mitchell, the new Executive Director of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association, as he outlines his vision for growth and collaboration in the industry.

The day begins with a trade show and free breakfast from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m., followed by keynote sessions, breakout discussions, and time to connect with vendors. The event concludes with a networking social hour from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m., complete with door prizes.

The expo is presented by AFAN in partnership with the Nebraska Pork Producers Association, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, and the York County Development Corporation.

“This is a unique opportunity for producers and ag leaders to come together, explore emerging trends, and build stronger connections,” said Steve Martin, Executive Director of AFAN. “Whether you’re looking to diversify your operation or simply stay informed, these events offer meaningful value.”

To register for the Nebraska Pork Producers Annual Meeting or the Nebraska Pork Expo, visit www.becomeafan.org. For additional information, contact Mindy at mindyr@a-fan.org or call 402-421-4472.



ACE: Unlocking New Market Opportunities Based on Agriculture Practices Highlighted at Fuel Ethanol Workshop

A panel at the 2025 Fuel Ethanol Workshop (FEW) will spotlight how agricultural conservation practices can create new markets and profit opportunities for ethanol producers and farmers. Titled "Turning Agricultural Practices into Low-Carbon Farming Success,” the session will take place on Monday, June 9, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. in Room 213/214 at the CHI Health Center in Omaha.

Moderated by American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings, the panel will explore how the ACE-led Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) projects are helping farmers adopt soil health practices—such as reduced tillage, efficient fertilizer use, and cover crops—to generate localized, verifiable data that supports greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction measurements that can lead to access to lucrative carbon markets.

ACE is working alongside farmers, ethanol companies, university soil scientists, and U.S. Department of Energy carbon modelers to scientifically document the carbon value of conservation practices across different soil types, temperatures, and precipitation levels across the corn belt.

“We’re helping bridge the gap between conservation practices on the farm and clean fuel markets that reward those efforts,” said Brian Jennings, ACE CEO. “That means more value for farmers and ethanol producers, and real progress toward improving modeling tools and unlocking market opportunities which can create new demand and value for corn ethanol.”

Panelists include:
    Brennan Lewis, Research Associate, Agronomy and Plant Science, South Dakota State University, who will provide a progress update and share insights from field-level data and grower engagement.
    Brent Hoops, Commodities Director at Chief Ethanol Fuels, Inc., who will offer a perspective from the ethanol production side and describe how this work aligns with facility and farmer interests.
    Dr. Richard Ferguson, Professor of Soil Science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, who will discuss soil health, carbon benefits, and productivity impacts of conservation practices.

Attendees will learn how real-world data and cross-sector collaboration can transform agricultural sustainability into measurable economic outcomes. Jennings will also participate in the Association Executives Q&A during the FEW general session on Tuesday morning, and ACE staff will be at booth #501 during the event, June 9-11.



Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute seeks new Executive Director

The University of Nebraska has announced a global search for a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as the next Executive Director of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute (DWFI). This pivotal role offers a unique opportunity to spearhead a globally impactful institute dedicated to ensuring water and food security for all.

Established in 2010 through a landmark $50 million gift from the Robert B. Daugherty Charitable Foundation, DWFI was founded with a clear mission: to address the global challenge of achieving food security with less pressure on water resources through improved management of water in agricultural and food systems. Mr. Daugherty, founder of Valmont Industries, was deeply committed to the efficient and sustainable use of water in agriculture to feed a growing world population, a legacy the Institute continues to uphold.

As an Institute of the University of Nebraska, DWFI engages in comprehensive research, academic programs, and outreach initiatives across all University campuses. The incoming Executive Director will be responsible for providing strategic direction and oversight for the Institute's three core missions: research, education, and policy, including Extension/outreach.

The primary charge of the Executive Director will be to further solidify DWFI's position as a global leader within the international water and food communities. This will involve cultivating and nurturing local, national, and international partnerships across both public and private sectors, pursuing collaborative opportunities, demonstrating achievement of results, and ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of the Institute.

The Executive Director will lead a dedicated core leadership team, including the Director of Research, Director of Policy, Director of the Nebraska Water Center, Director of the Water, Climate and Health program, Director of Communications and Public Relations, an Associate Director, and an Assistant Director. The Institute also boasts a vibrant community of Faculty Fellows, post-doctoral fellows, and both graduate and undergraduate students. The Executive Director will report to the NU Vice President and IANR Harlan Vice Chancellor.

The University is seeking a leader with a compelling vision, profound scientific expertise, and extensive administrative experience to champion DWFI's as a global leader in water for agriculture. The ideal candidate will be a passionate advocate for the Institute, bringing innovative ideas, positive energy, and a collaborative spirit to finding solutions to the looming crisis of global food and water security. The Executive Director will embrace the importance of the Institute’s mission and its focus on high quality research with practical applications that are accessible to the world community.

The Executive Director must have outstanding credentials that bridge water and agriculture research, broad international experience and connectivity, strong fund-raising skills, and an impressive record of collaboration within and outside academia.

This is a 100% administrative appointment, based in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Executive Director will be appointed to a five-year renewable term, subject to satisfactory annual reviews and a formal reappointment process.

The University of Nebraska is committed to finding a leader who can further elevate DWFI's impact on a global scale, ensuring a sustainable future for water and food resources.

Interested candidates can learn more and apply on the University of Nebraska employment website » https://employment.unl.edu/postings/97029. 



Record Number of Renewable Fuel Infrastructure Grants Awarded in Iowa 

During its last scheduled meeting during Fiscal Year 2025, the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) Wednesday awarded more than $1 million in cost-share grants to support the installation of E15 at 91 additional retail fuel sites across Iowa. This milestone brings the total number of E15 projects awarded this fiscal year to 388, by far the most grants in a year since RFIP’s inception.

“These investments are a win for Iowa drivers, farmers, and fuel retailers,” said Monte Shaw, Executive Director of the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA). “Retailers are working hard to meet the E15 Access Standard, and this program is a critical tool to help them bridge the gap in offering higher blends.”

So far in the current fiscal year, which began on July 1, 2024, RFIP has awarded over $11 million in grants, funding 388 E15 projects and 39 biodiesel projects. These public dollars have spurred millions more in private investment, accelerating the expansion of higher blends of renewable fuels across the state.

“It is clear the Governor’s E15 Access Standard is working and on pace for implementation on January 1 next year,” said Shaw. “We’re also pleased to see that as we predicted a huge number of retail locations in Iowa have been able to offer E15 with a very small investment, most of which is covered by the RFIP grants.”

In total, since the program's founding, more than $59 million in state grants have been awarded through RFIP, helping fund ethanol and biodiesel infrastructure. These investments have enabled hundreds of Iowa fueling stations to offer cleaner-burning, homegrown fuels like E15, E85, and biodiesel blends to consumers.

The Iowa Legislature recently approved an additional $10 million in funding for the program for the upcoming fiscal year. “We thank Governor Reynolds and state legislative leaders for stepping up,” Shaw added. “With a nudge from the Governor’s Biofuels Bill and support from the RFIP grant program, in less than three years E15 has gone from hard to find to readily available to the vast majority of Iowans. In short, the E15 Access Standard has been a remarkable success for motorists, Iowa’s economy, our environment, and for Iowa’s farmers.”



From Local to Global: Advocacy Panel Discusses Pork Industry Policy Playbook
 
At the 2025 World Pork Expo Wednesday, leaders from the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) delivered a clear message: the pork industry’s future will be strengthened by a united, proactive approach to advocacy. During a live panel discussion and media briefing, NPPC leaders outlined how a comprehensive, coordinated strategy is delivering results for America’s pork producers.

From local legislation to global trade, the panel emphasized that challenges facing producers require alignment across all levels of policy influence — state, federal, international, and corporate.

“NPPC’s number one priority is ensuring economic certainty and long-term sustainability for pork producers,” said Duane Stateler, NPPC president and Ohio pork producer. “Our advocacy is focused on defending the freedom to operate — and making sure every producer, regardless of size or location, has a voice.”

Joining Stateler were Bryan Humphreys, NPPC CEO; Maria C. Zieba, vice president of government affairs; and Kylee Deniz, executive director of the Oklahoma Pork Council, representing grassroots and state-level advocacy.

Humphreys spoke on the importance of persistence and bipartisan engagement in Washington. He emphasized the need for continued action to advance policy initiatives that provide certainty — such as fixing the patchwork of state-by-state confusion created by Proposition 12's rules in California. He urged action through a farm bill or other moving legislation. 

“Wins take time, and there is a lot of important work that happens behind the scenes,” Humphreys said. “Staying at the table — across administrations and political divides — is how we make lasting change.”

Zieba addressed domestic and international affairs, highlighting NPPC’s engagement in Washington, as well as the need for long-term focus on trade and continued participation in organizations that set global standards. Zieba highlighted the importance of opening market access to Vietnam, an important pork market.

“NPPC is persistent in our efforts to ensure producers have a voice in rooms where decisions are being made that impact their future,” said Zieba.
 
She also cited recent progress with USDA’s move to make higher plant processing line speeds permanent and securing registration renewals for more than 300 U.S. pork facilities eligible to export to China — both key priorities for NPPC.

Deniz highlighted the powerful role state associations play in shaping policy closest to the farm and helping to lead grassroots efforts.

“So much focus goes to Washington, but major decisions often start in state legislatures,” Deniz said. “We work closely with NPPC’s national team to maintain consistency and make sure producers are heard at every level.”



Weekly Ethanol Production for 5/30/2025

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending May 30, ethanol production accelerated 4.6% to an 11-week high of 1.11 million b/d, equivalent to 46.41 million gallons daily. Output was 3.1% higher than the same week last year and 5.3% above the three-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate scaled up 2.1% to 1.05 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.11 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks inched up 0.7% to 24.4 million barrels. Stocks were 6.0% more than the same week last year and 5.3% above the three-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the Gulf Coast (PADD 3) and West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, tanked 12.6% from a 33-week high to 8.26 million b/d (127.02 bg annualized), a 15-week low. Demand was 7.6% less than a year ago and 9.4% below the three-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol shrank 3.9% to 902,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.87 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.7% less than year-ago levels but 0.5% above the three-year average.

Ethanol exports bounded 127.3% to an estimated 150,000 b/d (6.3 million gallons/day). It has been more than a year since EIA indicated ethanol was imported.



Urea, UAN28 Lead Major Fertilizer Prices Higher

Average retail prices for major fertilizers continue to be mostly higher for the fourth week of May, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. Average retail prices for seven of the eight major fertilizers were higher compared to last month for the third straight week. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Leading the way higher again was urea. The nitrogen fertilizer was 11% higher compared to last month with an average price of $662 per ton. UAN28 also was more expensive compared to last month. The liquid nitrogen was 8% higher and had an average price of $418/ton. Five fertilizers had slightly higher prices. DAP had an average price of $798/ton, MAP $831/ton, potash $475/ton, 10-34-0 $669/ton and UAN32 $494/ton.

One fertilizer was slightly lower looking back to the prior month. Anhydrous had an average price of $776/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.72/lb.N, anhydrous $0.47/lb.N, UAN28 $0.75/lb.N and UAN32 $0.77/lb.N.

Seven fertilizers are now higher in price compared to one year earlier: DAP by 1%, both MAP and anhydrous by 2%, 10-34-0 by 4%, UAN28 by 17%, UAN32 by 22% and urea by 23%. The remaining fertilizer, potash, continues to be lower -- by 7% compared to last year.



LMA Praises Introduction of the HERITAGE Act

Livestock Marketing Association applauds the introduction of the Helping Ensure Rural Inheritance Transfers Are Generationally Enduring, or HERITAGE, Act. The bill, set in motion by Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), would help preserve family-owned agricultural land by adjusting the Internal Revenue Code that forces many families to sell their farmland to pay federal estate tax liabilities.

Mike VanMaanen, LMA president and owner of Eastern Missouri Commission Co., applauded the bill.

“As an auction market owner and cattleman, I see firsthand how the death tax negatively impacts not only livestock producers, but our nation's food security,” he said. “We appreciate Sen. Hyde-Smith’s commitment to the cattle industry, rural communities and consumers everywhere.”

The HERITAGE Act would amend IRC Section 2032A, which was enacted in 1976 to allow special-use valuation of farmland to reduce the estate tax value of farming operations. The maximum reduction under the 1976 law was just $750,000. Adjusted for inflation in 2025 that figure is $1.42 million, and woefully inadequate for preserving modern family farm operations — many of which are considered “land rich but cash poor.”

Hyde-Smith’s legislation would, among other things, increase the special-use valuation cap to $15 million for qualified real property used for farming purposes. This change would help keep many heirs from being forced to face a choice between selling portions of their productive farmland or incurring substantial debt to pay estate tax liabilities.